Elias, Branding Studio, webflow partner

Getting a quote for a website: 6 mistakes to avoid

Your brand, our focus
Your brand, our focus
Your brand, our focus
Your brand, our focus
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Getting a quote for a website: 6 mistakes to avoid
11/01/2024
12
Min

You are considering creating a website and you are now at the stage of drawing up a quote. It's not always easy to find your way around, is it? Between the technical terms, the services included (or not) and the costs that can vary from simple to double, you can quickly feel a bit lost. But don't worry, we're here to help.

At Studio Elias, we have supported numerous clients in the realization of their web project and we noticed that some errors often come up when requesting a quote. A bit like forgetting to charge your phone before a long trip: you realize it too late and the consequences can be annoying.

In this article, we share The 6 mistakes to avoid in order to obtain an accurate and adapted website quote to your needs. We guide you step by step so that your website creation project is a success. Come on...

Mistake 1: Not defining your needs as precise specifications

A website project without specifications means going on a road trip without GPS. To avoid this, it is essential to take a moment to put your ideas on paper (or on a good old Google Doc, we don't judge).

Why is a specification essential?

It is the compass for your project. It allows:

  • To clarify your needs : What site do you need? A showcase site, an e-commerce, or maybe a blog?
  • To detail your key functionalities : Contact form, customer area, newsletter integration, etc.
  • To anticipate content : How many pages will you need? What texts and visuals will need to be created or provided?

We like to plan a “section pack” from the start. This allows you to not be limited by the number of pages as the project evolves. Because yes, we know that inspiration can come along the way!

The essentials to define in your specifications

  • The type of site : Is it a showcase site to present your services, or an e-commerce site to sell your products?
  • The main objective : Increase your visibility? Generating sales? Or even capture leads?
  • The visual identity : Do you already have a logo and a graphic charter, or is that part of the expected services?

Overview of the wireframe of our Pipole project
For example, at Elias, we start all our web projects by thinking about the user journey of the future site. The design always arrives in time 2. This makes it possible to maximize the conversion of users visiting the website.

Bonus tip: be clear about your priorities

What you define from the start allows you to better frame the project and especially to avoid unpleasant surprises in terms of budget or deadline. The more specific you are, the more the service provider will be able to offer you a suitable solution. If you want a pizza that's half cheese, half vegetable, say it from the start (if not, hello regrets).

In summary, detailed specifications are the guarantee of starting your web project on a good basis.

Mistake #2: Forgetting the extras that make all the difference

When drawing up a quote for a website, we often think of “structural work”: design, development, online publishing. But be careful, it would be a mistake to overlook the small things that can have a big impact. These famous “extras” are sometimes absent from the estimate, even though they play a key role in the success of your project.

The extras not to forget (but that we forget all the time)

  • Brand positioning : Your site should reflect a strong identity. If your positioning is not clear, you may need to work up front to clearly define who you are and what you offer.
  • Content writing : Spoiler alert: the texts on the site are not always included in the quote. Remember to check if the writing is taken care of or if you will have to provide your content.
  • Additional graphic elements : Need a logo redesign, custom visuals, or animations that would even impress Pixar? These are often benefits to be added.
  • SEO settings : A nice site is good. A site visible on Google is better. Make sure the quote includes a minimum of SEO optimization.
  • Installing tools : Google Analytics, performance monitoring tools, CRM... If you want additional features, check that they are within the scope of the quote.
Google Analytics - SEO

Why are these extras essential?

A website is much more than a collection of pages. It is a window that must seduce your visitors, transmit your values and achieve your goals. Neglecting the details is like building a house without thinking about the decor: it works, but it lacks charm.

In short, the extras can transform a good site into an exceptional site. So, take the trouble to consider them and make sure they are factored into your quote. Because in the end, it's often the small details that make all the difference. 😉

Mistake #3: Underestimating the stages of the creative process

Creating a website is not just a magic wand (otherwise, we would all hire Hermione). Behind a well-designed site is a real process, with several steps that deserve your full attention. Underestimating the importance of these steps means risking delays, misunderstandings, or a result that does not meet your expectations.

The 3 essential steps to create a high-end website

Wireframe and user journey creation

This step, which is often overlooked, is in fact the foundation of your project.

  • The wireframe is a simplified model that determines the layout of the elements on your pages.
  • The user journey (or UX) ensures that your visitors will navigate fluidly and intuitively, without getting lost in a maze of clicks. Objective: To lay a solid foundation for an effective and pleasant site to use.
Wireframes for our customer Fuga

Web design: where aesthetics come to life

Once the foundations are laid, it's time for creativity!

  • Web design consists of creating a visual model of your site, with your colors, fonts and graphic elements.
  • This is where we decide the “look and feel” of your site, the one that will seduce your visitors at first glance. Objective: Create a site that reflects your brand identity while remaining functional.
Mockups for our customer Fuga

Integration and development: the magic of code

Once the model has been validated, it is time to transform all this into a functional site.

  • Integration consists in “coding” the pages so that they are interactive and efficient.
  • We also ensure that the site is responsive (adapted to all screens), fast and optimized for SEO. Objective: A site ready to be put online and to welcome your visitors.

The pitfalls to avoid

  • Thinking that everything can be done in a week: spoiler, a good site requires time.
  • Forget to check if the quote includes online publishing and tracking tools (like Google Analytics). At Studio Elias, it's a must.
  • Do not validate each step: good communication between the client and the service provider is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises.

In summary, don't take these steps lightly. They are the key to moving from a simple project to a site that makes a difference — much like going from Walter White unto Heisenberg. 😉

Mistake #4: Not asking who owns the website

Imagine: your website is finished, all beautiful, all functional. You are ready to make it shine on the canvas... except that in reality, you discover that you are not the owner. Yes, it does happen, and it's a detail that can make all the difference between a successful collaboration and monumental frustration.

Who has the keys to the site?

When using an agency or service provider to create your site, it is essential to clarify from the start who the site will belong to when completed. Some agencies keep technical ownership or host the site on their tools, which can limit your autonomy later on. At Studio Elias, there are no unpleasant surprises:

  • The site is developed directly on your tools (like Webflow or WordPress).
  • You are 100% owner of your site once the project is complete.
Webflow logos

Why is it important?

  • Autonomy : You will be able to manage and modify your site without depending on your service provider.
  • Transparency : You know exactly what you are paying for and what you are getting.
  • Ease of evolution : If you want to collaborate with another provider later, you will not be blocked.

The deposit: a guarantee for both parties

At Studio Elias, we require a 50% deposit at the start of the project. Why? Because it makes it possible to secure collaboration while guaranteeing you total commitment on our part. It's a bit like putting an option on the house of your dreams: you know that the project is in good hands.

The pitfalls to avoid

  • Don't ask the question early on: always clarify this point when requesting a quote.
  • Do not include this clause in the contract or terms and conditions.
  • Finding out too late that you don't have access to the back office or the site's source files.

Bonus tip: be curious

Feel free to ask for details about hosting, access management, and how the site will be delivered. Knowing who owns the website is like having the keys to your own house. This saves you a lot of inconvenience and allows you to maintain control over your project. And believe us, your competitors don't need any more reason to stay behind you. 😉

Mistake #5: Ignoring details that impact the final cost

A quote for a website is a bit like a restaurant bill: the total can quickly increase if you add options at the last minute. To avoid unpleasant surprises and stay in control of your budget, it is crucial to understand all the elements that can cause the final cost to vary. And spoiler alert: they're often in the details.

The main factors that make the price vary

  1. Number of additional pages : You thought you needed 5 pages, but along the way, did you realize that a blog or FAQ would be very useful? Each addition may represent an additional cost. At Studio Elias, we define a section pack from the start to anticipate these needs without exploding the budget.
  2. Unexpected changes : A color to change, a feature to add... each retouch takes time and may involve additional costs if it is not provided for in the initial estimate.
  3. Maintenance and updates : Your site doesn't stop living once it's online. Remember to inspect if the quote counts:
    • Technical maintenance.
    • Regular updates.
    • Any costs for correcting bugs or improving the site after delivery.
  4. Tools and features : Integrating tools such as a CRM, a newsletter platform or tailor-made animations can increase the bill. Always check what's included and what's not.
3D animation on Webflow

Details not to be overlooked in the quotation

  • The terms of payment : Installments in installments or down payment? At Studio Elias, we require a 50% deposit to get started with confidence.
  • The extension clauses : What happens if the project takes longer than expected or if you change your mind about some features?
  • Post-delivery services : SEO, site management training, content addition... All this can be invoiced at an additional cost.

Bonus tip: ask questions

Don't be afraid to ask for detailed explanations about the quote. A transparent service provider is a trustworthy provider. At Studio Elias, we like to keep everything clear from the start.

In summary, drawing up a well-detailed quote is the key to avoiding unpleasant surprises and keeping your budget under control. Because it's better to anticipate than to discover at the last minute that your site costs more than the production of Game of Thrones. 😉

Mistake #6: Choosing an offer without looking at quality and transparency

Finding the right provider to create your website can sometimes include attractive promises, but sometimes a very different reality. It is tempting to choose the cheapest offer or the one that seems to be the fastest, but be careful, this can often hide a lack of quality or clarity in the services.

The dangers of offers that are not very transparent

Unclear quotes

If the quote is vague or incomplete, this should immediately set off an alert.

  • What services are actually included?
  • Are the requested functionalities well detailed?
  • What about steps like hosting, SEO, or maintenance? At Studio Elias, we firmly believe that a quote should be as clear as a Google results page: each service is explained and justified.

Hidden costs

Some agencies or service providers may deliberately omit important details to display an attractive price. As a result, you end up paying additional fees for essential items such as performance monitoring or additional pages.

A dubious quality

A website is not just about price. Design quality, user experience and technical performance are paramount. A low-cost site can end up costing more to fix or redo.

How do you assess quality and transparency?

  • Analyze references : Look at the provider's previous projects. At Studio Elias, we like our achievements to speak for us.
  • Ask the right questions :
    • Who manages the accommodation?
    • Who will the site belong to once delivered?
    • Does the quote include all the steps, from creation to post-delivery follow-up?
  • Check the terms and conditions : Payment terms, guarantees, maintenance... Nothing should be left to chance.

Bonus tip: don't just choose the price

An overly attractive quote can hide shortcomings. Prefer an offer that is slightly more expensive, but clear and comprehensive. At Studio Elias, we believe that your website should be a sustainable investment, not a lottery.

In summary, don't be seduced by an offer that's too good to be true. Transparency and value are your best allies in avoiding unpleasant surprises. Because a successful website is a site that impresses your visitors... and that makes your competitors cringe. 😉

Conclusion: Your quote, your best ally for a site that suits you

To obtain a quote for a website is to lay the foundations of your project. By avoiding common mistakes and by promoting transparency, you ensure a result that meets your expectations. At Studio Elias, we are there to support you with clarity and expertise, by delivering a turnkey site, ready to impress your visitors and surpass your competitors.

Ready to get started? Contact us for a detailed and tailor-made quote. 🚀

Elias, Branding Studio, webflow partner

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